WARRNAMBOOL’S creative community put on a show for the first event in Warrnambool’s Hidden Histories Laneway Festival.

Even mayor Michael Neoh took to the catwalk in Ozone Lane for the festival’s fashion parade and local artists Gareth Colliton and Tom Pendergast created a permanent mural in the walkway between Capricorn Records and Australia Post.

Warrnambool City manager of business support Tanya Egan said organisers were delighted with the support from the community. Ms Egan said the festival was part of the council’s city centre revitalisation plan to help create a 21st century Warrnambool CBD.

“We know that the community wants the city centre to be alive,” she said.

“An event like this brings people together and celebrates the lifestyle we have.

“We were so happy the weather held out.”

Ms Egan also praised the work of the team from the F Project, which is a local artist-run initiative, and businesses which had helped make the event a success.

The event included a fashion parade featuring vintage fashions and outfits made by district fashion designers, live music from local musicians and an artists’ market.

Saturday’s activities were the first of 10 Laneway Festival events to be held between January and May, each with its own special character.

The festival is supported by Warrnambool City Council, the state government and F Project.

Ms Egan said the next event would partner with the Wunta Fiesta and use two laneways in Liebig Street.